An Iranian-American singer who spent her formative years in India, Azam Ali had the perfect upbringing for her talent to develop. A performer with bands VAS and Niyaz, Ali was accompanied by the latter at Udaipur World Music Festival.

Incidentally, Niyaz is also one of the bands founded by her husband Loga Ramin Torkian. Torkian and Ali tour the world, performing Persian and Middle Eastern tunes. They are also always accompanied by their 9-year-old son, who, as Ali says, "doesn't know any other life than this life".

In this interview with Catch, Ali talks about the conflict between Iran and America, especially with Trump's ban. "It's kind of like your parents are having a divorce, they hate each other. You don't know which side to pick."

While she, as an American citizen, doesn't have any ban imposed on her, she hopes that her music brings peace to those who do. "Musicians are the greatest ambassadors for peace," says Ali.

Feminist and culturally displaced, Durga tries her best to live up to her overpowering name. She speaks four languages, by default, and has an unhealthy love for cheesy foods. Assistant Editor at Catch, Durga hopes to bring in a focus on gender politics and the role in plays in all our interactions.